Step 3: Neutralize. Create a thick paste out of baking soda and water. Apply to the spill to absorb it. Wait 1 or 2 minutes. Wipe up the mixture with paper towel and immediately put the soiled paper towel in the plastic bag. Apply another layer of the baking soda paste.
Causes of Bare Spots in the Lawn. Bare spots in your lawn can be the result of heavy foot traffic (causing soil compaction), drought, disease, chemical burn and weed or insect infestation. Before beginning repairs, you need to determine the source of your problem.
A Fungus Among Us. Various diseases attack and damage grass, resulting in unsightly brown spots. Hot, humid weather provides the conditions needed by lawn fungus, which creates round patches of brown grass up to several feet in diameter. However, some fungal diseases attack lawns even in cold weather.